What is viral meningitis? Causes, symptoms and treatment options of this condition

What is viral meningitis? (Image: Freepik)

Five young students from St. Paul's International School in Ernakulam district in Kerala have been hospitalised with symptoms suggestive of viral meningitis, a condition that causes inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

According to district health officials, the affected children, all from classes 1 and 2, exhibited symptoms such as fever, headache, irritability and vomiting. While their condition remains stable, two of them required intensive care at Aster Medcity Hospital. One has since been moved to a regular ward, and the other is expected to be shifted out of the ICU soon.

To confirm the diagnosis, medical teams have sent samples to the National Institute of Virology in Alappuzha for further testing.

What is viral meningitis?

Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, known as meninges. "It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites, with viral meningitis being the most common and generally less severe form," says Dr Tushar Tayal, consultant, internal medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram.

The symptoms of viral meningitis can develop suddenly. "These include fever, severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light (photophobia), nausea, and vomiting," explains Dr Tayal, adding, "In severe cases, individuals may experience confusion, seizures, or difficulty waking up, requiring urgent medical intervention."

According to Dr Jagadish Hiremath, public health expert, the primary culprits behind viral meningitis are :

Enteroviruses: These are the most common cause, especially during late summer and early fall. They include coxsackieviruses and echoviruses.

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Particularly HSV-2, which is more commonly associated with genital infections, can also lead to meningitis.

Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV): The virus responsible for chickenpox and shingles can cause meningitis.

Mumps Virus: In areas where mumps vaccination rates are low, this virus remains a significant cause.

Measles Virus: Although rare due to widespread vaccination, measles can lead to meningitis.

Transmission typically occurs through direct contact with an infected person's saliva, nasal mucus, or feces. "For instance, enteroviruses can spread via the fecal-oral route, while HSV is transmitted through direct contact with infected secretions," Dr Hiremath explains.

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Treatment of viral meningitis

Treatment of viral meningitis focuses on supportive care. (Image: Freepik)

There is no specific antiviral treatment for most cases of viral meningitis, and the condition is usually self-limiting, meaning it resolves on its own. "Treatment focuses on supportive care, which includes rest and hydration, over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol for fever and headaches, and antiviral medications in specific cases," Dr Hiremath says.

Most individuals with viral meningitis recover completely within 7 to 10 days without specific therapy, however, Dr Tayal suggests its crucial to differentiate viral meningitis from bacterial meningitis, which is more severe and requires prompt antibiotic treatment.

Preventing viral meningitis involves practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals and disinfecting surfaces. "Vaccination against mumps, measles and varicella can help reduce the risk of some viral infections that may lead to meningitis," Dr Tayal says.

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By understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, adhering to appropriate treatment protocols, and implementing preventive measures, individuals can effectively manage and reduce the risk of viral meningitis.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.